The British Hospitality Association has welcomed government plans for an additional £10m business support scheme to help those affected by recent flooding.

The association has also praised the efforts of owners and employees in the hotel and hospitality industries for the help they have provided to those left homeless or in need of shelter.

A wide variety of hospitality and tourism businesses across the UK have played a pivotal role in aiding the relief effort, with many offering shelter to individuals and families whose homes have been flooded by the tumultuous weather that his been prominent since the Christmas period.

One such example came in the form of Surinder Arora, founder and chief executive of the Arora Group, who handed over his 119-bedroom hotel to the relief effort, in order to provide emergency accommodation for affected homeowners in the Heathrow area.

More than 80 flood warnings remain in place across England and Wales, while the Somerset Levels have also been given severe flood warnings, meaning that there could be risk to life.

Since the floods started, the worst-hit areas have been in the South West, alongside Surrey and Berkshire in the Thames region.

“Despite the catastrophic effects of flooding on UK hospitality and tourism businesses, our industry has – and continues to - rally together to support their local communities and the people living in them,” said Ufi Ibrahim, CEO of the British Hospitality Association.

“What we are witnessing here is the enduring resilience and community spirit for which our industry has become renowned.”

Insurance heads have also met with ministers at Downing Street recently to discuss the future of flood defence policies for businesses in flood-risk areas. It is thought that insurers could now potentially change premiums to reflect flood risks, which could lead to higher insurance costs for businesses.

As well as outlining its £10m support scheme, the government has also provided extra time for businesses to file accounts without penalties, while also setting up a free one-hour helpline offering advice to business owners affected by flooding.